Borussia Dortmund ends controversial weapons manufacturer sponsorship deal

Dortmund will not renew its sponsorship deal with weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall after this season, following sustained fan protests.

Borussia Dortmund has announced it will not extend its sponsorship agreement with German weapons manufacturer Rheinmetall beyond the current season. The deal, announced in 2024, was worth over €20 million across three seasons but faced immediate backlash from supporters who objected to the club's association with the defence contractor.

Fans organized multiple protest actions against the agreement, arguing the club should not help improve the company's image. During Dortmund's members' assembly in 2024, shareholders voted against extending the partnership beyond 2027. Board chairman Carsten Cramer acknowledged the criticism, stating the club had listened to members and fans and factored their concerns into discussions with Rheinmetall.

Cramer said the decision to end the deal will limit Dortmund's financial flexibility, forcing the club to reprioritize planned investments and find alternative solutions.